Ruggles Green

Ruggles Green is the newest attempt by the Ruggles family of restaurants and owner Bruce Molzan and has certainly lived up to all expectations. Located near the intersection of the glamorous and funky River Oaks, Kirby and Montrose neighborhoods at 2311 West Alabama, Ruggles Green is situated perfectly to draw an eclectic group of guests and features an equally interesting menu that is as much health nut as it is gourmet dining.

Guests will be greeted with a contemporary yet comfortable interior that showcases the order-in bar. With a large menu above the bar, visitors can choose their menu item while standing in line and they are then welcomed to choose a table inside the restaurant or on a side indoor/outdoor patio. The menu is as varied as the clientele with options from wood-fired pizzas (that can be made gluten-free upon request), salads and burgers to vegetarian and vegan options, meaning that there is truly something for everyone. To complete the experience, the staff is as excited and passionate about their menu items as many of the restaurant's regular clients.

The most unique feature of Ruggles Green is their commitment to sustainability and the environment. As a "Green Restaurant Certified" restaurant, Ruggles Green prides itself on incorporating all-natural, organic, hormone and preservative-free products that are environmentally sustainable in to all of its menu items. In addition, some fruits, vegetables and herbs are grown by the restaurant itself and as many items as possible are acquired from local sources. Ruggles Green has established a full-scale recycling program and even recycles fry oil to be converted to biofuel.

Perfect for a business lunch or a dinner with the family, the restaurant environment is flexible and welcoming to all. Prices start at around $7.95 for entrees at any time of the day. Check the exceptional wine list for organic, local wines and for a little less guilt, indulge in an evaporated cane juice and honey-sweetened dessert.

Though only one location is currently open, another location in west Houston's City Centre is expected to open its doors in the spring of 2010. Hours of operation are 11pm to 10pm daily and in addition to in-house dining, Ruggles Green offers the option to place a to-go order. For more information, including the menu and green standards, call 713.533.0777 or visit the Ruggles Green website.

www.rugglesgreen.com